The Analysis of Vitality of the Kashubian Language Based on Research in Glodnica

The problem of endangered Kashubian language has been present in research for many years. Until now, however, linguists have not put forward solid, empirical studies analysing the actual condition of the Kashubian ethnolect. Such an attempt is undertaken by the authors of the article that presents statistical data, obtained during empirical studies in a hamlet called Glodnica in Kashubia, which were intended to help determine the condition of the Kashubian language in this concrete area. The departure point for research constitutes the ethnolinguistic model of vitality by Giles, Bouhris and Taylor (1977), being an empirically confirmed, interdisciplinary research concept used for the analysis of status of linguistic minorities, primarily in relation to extralinguistic conditions. On the basis of the analysis of the collected data, the authors come to conclusion that ethnolinguistic vitality in Glodnica is high and that the process of disappearance of the Kashubian language has not reached a critical point. Despite the presence of the Polish language in all spheres of life, the Kashubian language has been preserved and remains a dominant communication means in the majority of everyday situations.